Gilbert Parks and Recreation Department commits to provide superior parks, recreation and cultural programs, which exceed customer expectations, enhance the quality of life, and promote lifelong leisure and educational pursuits. These services are provided by a dedicated team, focused on fairness, trust, innovation, with a commitment to excellence.

Message from Director, Rod Buchanan

Gilbert continues to deliver Best in Class parks and programs in a variety of ways. Gilbert currently has three community centers, two public libraries, four public pools, nearly 50 miles of trail system, and more than 600 acres of developed parkland, not including an additional 258 acres to be developed in the coming years. Recently, and for the ninth time, Gilbert was honored with a 2015 Playful City USA designation. The national recognition program honors cities and towns across the country for making their communities more playable. Additionally, Gilbert received the Tree City Award for the seventh year in a row. Be sure to visit our new Tree City page on the website to learn more about the program and tips for tree management. TREE CITY

Fall is a great time to get a jump start on positioning yourself for a summer job by taking Lifeguard Training during the Fall Break in October. Keep an eye on our website and social media for more information.

I encourage you to enjoy our great programs at the Riparian Preserve including Bird Walks, Explore the Night Sky at the Observatory, classes on gardening. fly-fishing and more. In particular, be sure to join us for the annual Gilbert’s Youth Fishing Day. This FREE community event takes place on October 3, 2015 from 8am-noon at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch Lake. The Arizona Game and Fish Department will loan fishing gear and bait to the first 100 participants who do have gear of their own. This is a great opportunity to spend the morning fishing with family or to bring a young angler who would enjoy the experience! For more information go to Gilbert’s Youth Fishing Day

Did you know that you can check facility, ramada and field availability online? Go to www.gilbertrecreation.com to check availability prior to calling the Parks and Recreation office in order to speed up your transaction. I invite to get out and enjoy one of our wonderful parks or take one of the exciting programs we offer.

Gilbert Parks and Recreation has something for all ages and opportunities to give back to the community through volunteering. Be sure to check out our website for information on volunteering. www.gilbertaz.gov/parks

The main goal of the Family Violence Unit is to address domestic violence through a multidisciplinary approach and collaborative effort with the assistance of GYAR counselors, victim advocates and service agencies.